Over the past few weeks, the Foundation have gone international, delivering specialised sports camps to children in Holland and Gibraltar.
This initiative marks a significant step in the Foundation’s mission to promote both Rugby League, Netball and Multi-Sports beyond the UK, providing young athletes with unique coaching experiences.
First up, staff took a trip to the British School in Holland, with the aim of boosting participation in among all students at The British School, with the initiative including a diverse group ranging from national team players to complete beginners.
Education Project Officer, Dane Weatherill, said: “The British School benefitted greatly as they had their first opportunity to access a full day of Rugby League and Netball coaching.
“Many children experienced these sports for the first time, including those from different countries bringing their national sports.
“This initiative helped us establish connections with international organisations and explore various lifestyles and coaching methods. It was also instrumental in developing Rugby League and Netball abroad, with kids becoming more confident as the day progressed.”
Head of Co-Curricular Sports and Teacher of PE at the British School, Thomas Archer added: “’It was fantastic to be able to offer over 100 students the chance to take part in the Netball and Rugby League clinics held at the BSN during Activities Week, the students had a great time and the coaches were fantastic.
“It has provided us with a platform to launch our Netball and Rugby seasons for 2024/25 and allowed a number of students the chance to participate in the sports for the first time as well as offering challenges to experienced players.
“We look forward to developing links further with the Leeds Rhinos Foundation in the coming years and providing more opportunities for our students, whilst also helping the Foundation to develop opportunities for others.”
Next on the itinerary was a trip to Gibraltar for a week-long Multi-Sports camp in partnership with British Forces.
Development Officer, Brad Cox, said: “We were delighted to have 161 participants, ranging from children aged 5 to 11, young people aged 11 to 18, and adults over 18, taking part in the week’s activities over in Gibraltar!
“We started with small numbers but built up as the week progressed, it was amazing to see how the kids grew more confident as they got to know each other and made new friends.”
Zakia Yousaf, Community Development Manager for British Forces Gibraltar added: “Thank you to The Leeds Rhinos Foundation for hosting the first week of the Community Support team’s summer programme 2024!
“The multisport activities consisted of numerous team and group games as well as supporting individuals’ skill building, physical development, and coordination.
“There was something for everyone, children aged 5 to 11 year olds, young people, teenagers and even the adult community members took part too! We’ve all had a great time, the week was challenging, varied, exciting and lots of fun!
“Thank you very much Brad and Brett for all your talents!”
We are optimistic that these new partnerships will continue to flourish, allowing us to continue providing sporting activities to children abroad. We look forward to expanding these opportunities, reaching more young athletes in different countries, and promoting the benefits of sports and physical activity globally!